Australia, Japan strike largest defence deal for advanced warships
Australian minister lauds deal for next-generation, Mogami-class frigates and their long-range missile capabilities.
www.aljazeera.comDirect answer: Australia and Japan have announced a major frigate deal, valued around A$10 billion, to supply next-generation Mogami-class frigates for the Royal Australian Navy, with initial deliveries expected from 2029 and most ships to be assembled in Australia.[3][5][8]
Context and key points:
- The deal centers on three Japanese-built frigates initially, with eight more to be built in Australia, marking Australia’s largest naval acquisition since the AUKUS pact.[5][3]
- The Mogami-class design enables advanced anti-submarine warfare, surface engagement, and air defense, and is touted for higher automation and reduced crew requirements compared with older ships.[2][5]
- The agreement is part of broader Indo-Pacific security dynamics, reflecting closer defense cooperation between Australia and Japan amid concerns about regional maritime security and China’s influence.[8][2]
What this means for you:
- If you’re tracking defense procurement, expect timeline milestones in 2029 for the first deliveries and ongoing Australian involvement in final assembly and maintenance infrastructure.[3][5]
- For regional security analysis, this represents a significant deepening of Japan-Australia military-industrial collaboration and a potential impact on shipbuilding activity in Australia’s defense sector.[2][8]
Illustration (simple landscape view):
- Timeline: 2025 announcements → 2029 first deliveries → rest built in Australia over subsequent years.
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